Miles goes from rising star to problem child

D.Miles was once considered the next K.G.

It seems like only yesterday when Darius Miles and Quentin Richardson were putting on a high-flying act with a young and burgeoning Los Angeles Clippers team. The two were the talk of the league. Now, Richardson has been exiled to the horrible basketball island known as the New York Knicks and Miles has been exiled — period.

After a two-year stint in Cleavland and an injury-plagued stay in Portland, Miles went to Boston Celtics with less athleticism and pledges of a new personal outlook on the game. That statement was immediately called into question when miles was tolled a 10-game suspension for violating the NBA’s anti-drug program and was subsequently waived by the Celtics.

It’s unbelievable at this juncture in his career, but Miles was once compared to his former teammate Kevin Garnett. The physical similarities are obvious: wiry frames and athleticism, but the comparisons stop there. K.G. has an unrivaled passion for, and commitment to, the game. He also stays out of trouble, and has a positive public perception, which are two things Miles can not claim.

Many NBA players have been down this road — from prospects full of potential to outcast, who can’t make a team. It’s a ugly transformation to witness, but, sadly, Miles may be another added to a long list of outcasts.

From the press box: Carolina Panthers

Brees finally broke through with a deep pass to Colston that they’d tried all game. The play led to a goal stand where the Panthers stopped the Saints on third down, leading to a fourth and two where the Panthers stopped the New Orleans running game.

Panthers went on to win the game 30-7, holding New Orleans below 30 for the first time in their last four games.

Also: Reggie Bush may have torn the miniscus in his left knee. I will not accompany the team on a flight to London to play San Diego, and will go to Birmingham, Ala. to have it looked at.

Panther:30; Saints: 7